Regardless of where you live, crime happens. And the bulk of break-ins occur during daylight hours through an unlocked door or window. The thieves generally don’t need to use rocket science: the fact is that many Australian homeowners simply don’t take home security seriously enough.

A high percentage of crooks gain entry by simply picking or breaking the lock on the front door. Brazen indeed, but it’s not too hard to do if the door doesn’t have a deadbolt!

What is a Deadbolt?

A deadbolt or deadbolt lock is a lock that can only be moved into the open position by rotating a key. The mechanism is solid and does not rely on the pressure of an internal spring. Deadbolts offer excellent security because they have a locking mechanism that is highly resistant to battering, boring and cutting.

Are there Different Types of Deadbolt Locks?

The simple answer is ‘yes’. When choosing a deadbolt for your front door, there are several different models available. Read below to discover the pros and cons of each type:

 

  • Single Cylinder

 

The most common and conventional deadlock, the single-cylinder, is activated using a key on the outside and a twist knob on the inside. Single-cylinder locks are easy to fit, easy to use and provide an effective level of protection in the domestic setting.

Perhaps the most obvious disadvantage with this model is that if your door has glass panes or side windows, an intruder may gain access by breaking the glass and reaching through to turn the knob.  

On the positive side, if you have little children or elderly people in the house, a twist knob on the inside is an important safety consideration: in the event of an emergency such as fire, they can easily unlock the door to exit the property.

 

  • Double Cylinder Deadlock

 

The double cylinder deadlock offers an extra level of security because both sides of the lock can only be opened using a key. This model may be a better option for front doors with glass panels or side windows – a burglar cannot gain entry by smashing the glass and reaching inside.

However, in the event of an emergency, the double cylinder deadlock could be your worst enemy: you may not have time to search for and locate the key! For safety’s sake, deadlock keys should be kept in a secure place within easy reach of the door.

 

  • Lockable Thumbturn Deadlock

 

This type of deadlock offers the best of both worlds: the security of a double cylinder deadlock with the convenience of a thumbturn on the inside. The thumbturn can be locked when extra security is needed (e.g. going on vacation) but for everyday use, the door is easily opened from inside.

 

  • Digital Deadlock

 

The digital deadlock offers the same mechanics as the traditional deadlock but does away with the hassle of keys: it is accessed using a digital keypad and pin. Passwords (and temporary passwords) can be created to allow individuals to enter without you having to keep track of extra keys.

It’s important to note that if the lock relies on an electric current to operate, this may cause issues in the event of a power outage.

 

  • Rim Deadlock

 

A rim deadlock is fitted to the inside of the door and accessed from the outside using a key. The main advantage of this model is that it locks automatically every time the door is closed, saving you the hassle of remembering to lock up.  

 

  • Vertical Deadlock

 

This model is fitted to the top edge of the door on the inside and makes prying the door open virtually impossible. Although they offer that extra level of protection against intruders, they are sometimes considered unsightly and are not a sensible choice for homes where children are present.

 

  • Mortise Deadlock

 

A mortise deadlock is fitted into a recess or mortise cut into the door and can only be operated using a key. Some people argue that cutting into the door itself can weaken the structure, however, for most domestic situations a mortise deadbolt provides a high level of security.

Again, because it is key operated it may not be the safest option if you have a family with little children.

 

When choosing a deadlock for your front door, it’s important to consider all aspects of safety. While key-operated deadlocks may offer maximum security, they are definitely a hazard in the event of an emergency such as a fire.